Nine pill testing myths

In all the talk, some myths keep being trotted out. Here’s the facts

Australia's Science Channel (Australia)Monday, February 4, 2019

From politicians to the public, the same myths keep being rolled out about pill testing. They’ve been testing pills in 20 other countries for at least two decades and there is considerable evidence that it helps reduce harm. There’s only been one sanctioned trial in Australia – at last year’s Groovin The Moo festival in Canberra – but there were positive signs. Only 20 people sought assistance from ACT Ambulance (most for intoxication linked to alcohol and/or MDMA) compared with 30 the previous year. Two people were taken to hospital for intoxication, but neither had attended the testing facility. A UK study showed that where when pill testing was in operation, hospital attendances dropped in nearby areas by as much as 95%.

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UN Drug Control

In 2011 the 1961 UN Single Convention on drugs will be in place for 50 years. In 2012 the international drug control system will exist 100 years since the International Opium Convention was signed in 1912 in The Hague. Does it still serve its purpose or is a reform of the UN Drug Conventions needed? This site provides critical background.